Toxic threats
The chemicals used in everything from perfumes to cleaners to fertilizers should make our lives better — not harm our health or our environment.
There are more than 80,000 chemicals on the market in the United States, used in everything from perfumes and household cleaners to fertilizers and industrial solvents. Surprisingly, most chemicals go into use without testing their long-term impact on our health or the environment. We should make sure that any chemical in use is safe, eliminate any we know are dangerous, and when industries make a toxic mess, we should know right away, and they should pay to clean it up.
The Latest on Toxic threats
What’s the problem with fast fashion?
Has PFAS contaminated your beach?
Updates
We’re making your voice heard on mercury pollution
New Report: The Threat of ‘Forever Chemicals’
REI commits to eliminating PFAS from its products
Featured Resources
The Threat of “Forever Chemicals”
Who are the top toxic water polluters in your state?
“Chemical recycling”: What you need to know.
Get the Lead Out
The Latest
Type
Why is Red Dye #3 still being used in our food?
Thirty years after Red Dye #3 was banned from use in cosmetics, this toxic additive is still being used to, for example, make freeze pops a brighter red. That's nuts.
STATEMENT: EPA acts to protect drinking water from PFAS
New proposal would create first national limits on dangerous ‘forever chemicals’
Victory: REI is phasing out toxic PFAS from its products
Other outdoor retailers should follow REI’s lead and take action to eliminate these harmful chemicals.
We can prevent future chemical train derailments by using less plastic
Seven out of the eight types of toxic materials that escaped from the derailed train in East Palestine, Ohio, are used to make plastic.
EPA, DOT to increase accountability, safety in wake of Ohio chemical train derailment
Federal government requiring Norfolk Southern to pay for cleanup; new rail safety rules coming